Students of the Joint Command and General Staff Course (JCGSC) for the 2023/2024 academic year, along with faculty members, went on a field trip to Saaremaa, the largest island in Estonia. They aimed to explore the historic sites related to "Operation Albion 1917," conducted by the German armed forces during World War I. "Operation Albion 1917" was a significant joint military operation that involved air, land, and naval forces. Its primary objective was to target and occupy the West Estonian Archipelago and dislodge Russian forces from the region. This operation took place during World War I and had historical importance, making it a valuable subject for study and exploration.

The tour took six key locations contested by the Germans and Russians during the Operation and subsequent action. Our students were also treated to interesting lectures from the local Defence League (Territorial Defence) and Deputy Commander of the Estonian Navy on contemporary challenges and an equally fascinating presentation on historical aspects of "Operation Albion" from renowned local historian Villu Vatsfeld.

The trip was an integral constituent of the "Fundamentals & Components" module and provided the students and faculty with a firsthand look at the historical sites and the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the military tactics and strategies employed during that time. Such experiential learning can benefit those studying military history and strategy.